Karmê Chöling : Meditation Retreat Center

Redefining masculinity

Breaking Free from Outdated Norms
The topic of masculinity can be challenging for many of us, especially in a time when our models and methods of manhood are so often outdated, restrictive, and in many cases, harmful. Traditionally (and systemically) men have been taught to suppress their emotional needs, leading to toxic behaviors such as unchecked aggression or fear-based shame. In a time where societal norms around gender and identity are evolving, it’s become increasingly important to create spaces where men can explore and redefine what masculinity truly means for them.

Community and Space

For Those Identifying as Male
During our time together we will create a space where those identifying as male can gather to practice meditation, engage in reflective inquiry and explore deeply the questions of:

• What is masculinity?
• What are its toxic and wisdom forms?
• What are some of it’s obstacles, gifts, and needs?

Through guided meditations and group discussions, we will uncover the tender, courageous essence of masculinity that often lies beneath the surface of maladaptive forms. Together, we will challenge the limiting norms around manhood, presenting a vision that is not only healthier but also empowering.

Program Activities

Participants can expect activities designed to deepen their understanding of masculinity and support their personal growth journey. These include:

• Daily short talks
• Guided inquiry and discussion
• Meditation practices
• Dyad and small group processes
• Movement meditation and outside time
• Solitary contemplation

Key Takeaways

By the end of the program, participants will leave with a richer, more nuanced understanding of masculinity, equipped with tools for living more authentically. Some of the core outcomes include:

• Emotional awareness and expression: Participants develop healthier ways to express their emotions, learning to navigate vulnerability with strength.
• Connection with a supportive community: Through a sense of camaraderie, participants build lasting relationships with others who are on a similar journey of self-discovery.
• Practical tools for self-reflection: With meditation, inquiry, and group work, participants can engage in ongoing self-reflection, continuing to explore and redefine their masculinity long after the program ends.
• Revised perspective on manhood: Most importantly, participants walk away with a more authentic and empowering vision of masculinity—one that embraces tenderness, bravery, and wisdom.

Who will benefit from this program?

This program is designed for men who feel the weight of societal expectations surrounding masculinity and are seeking more authentic, grounded ways of expressing themselves. It is also ideal for those who wish to break free from toxic patterns, redefine their relationship with masculinity, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and connection. Additionally, mental health professionals, community leaders, and anyone supporting men’s wellness may find immense value in this program, as it offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding masculine identity. Finally, men who wish to explore their emotional and spiritual dimensions in a supportive, non-judgmental space will find this program particularly enriching.

Arrival and Departure

Friday, please arrive 3:00 - 6:00pm for registration.
Dinner will be served at 6:30pm.
The program will officially begin at 7:30pm.
On Sunday, the program will finish by 12:30pm.
Lunch is at 12:30.

Peaceful Body, Peaceful Mind

When body is relaxed and peaceful, energy will flow. When mind is still, it will embrace qi and strengthen the body. In the Chinese arts of health and longevity, qigong simultaneously cultivates a peaceful body and a peaceful mind. Physical health and mental well-being are closely aligned.

Begin your journey of health and well-being in Qigong 1 by learning six classic qigong techniques that relax the body and two postures of standing qigong that gather internal energy. Continue in Qigong 2 by learning how to guide energy through the body using the Nine Self-Massage. Complete the program by learning Twelve Devas Tendon Changing - the most effective form of qigong used in repairing physical injuries and enhancing muscular-skeletal strength.

The Qigong of Xiantainwujimen Taoism

Xiantianwujimen is a Taoist lineage founded by Chen Xiyi in 10th century China. “Xiantian” means primordial, “wuji” means limitless, and “men” means gate. The translated name of the lineage is Primordial Limitless Gate.

This lineage specializes in using qigong to simultaneously cultivate and transform body and mind. A hermit and household tradition, Xiantianwujimen has been transmitted uninterrupted for over a thousand years. Qigong techniques favored by this lineage include self-massage, tendon-changing, calisthenics, marrow washing, and breath regulation.

Instruction of Xiantianwujimen qigong is offered by Eva Wong, a 19th generation carrier of the lineage, and by instructors authorized by the lineage.

The Buddha’s teachings on the "Three Turnings" continues to be a source of guidance and wisdom in our modern lives. Studying these teachings offers profound insights into different aspects of our own existence and provides a path forward to awakening. Through their exploration, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and the world in which we live.

We will explore the:

1. First Turning - Recognizing Suffering and Liberation: This teaching helps us face the reality of suffering in life, whether it's physical, emotional, or existential. By understanding the causes of suffering and the possibility of liberation, we become better equipped to deal with life’s challenges. It can lead to greater peace, resilience, and the motivation to work towards our own freedom.
2. Second Turning - Emptiness and Compassion: This phase emphasizes the idea that everything, including ourselves, is empty of inherent, unchanging nature. Recognizing emptiness can help us let go of attachments, judgments, and fixed ideas, which often lead to suffering. It also fosters compassion, as we start to see that all beings are interconnected and experience suffering in similar ways.
3. Third Turning - Buddha Nature and Inherent Goodness: The final turning points to the potential for goodness and enlightenment within all beings. Understanding Buddha Nature can inspire hope and confidence in our own ability to grow spiritually. It offers a profound sense of trust in ourself and others, knowing that we all have the capacity for wisdom, love, and awakening.

By studying these teachings, we'll be able to apply the Buddha’s wisdom to our own life, developing a more compassionate, wise, and liberated perspective. It’s not just about understanding philosophy—it’s about transforming our way of being in the world.

Our weekend will also feature group meditation instruction and practice, along with the review and discussion of texts like "Maitribhavana" on loving kindness and "The Heart Sutra". There will be plenty of time for questions and discussions.

Arrival and Departure

Friday, please arrive 3:00 - 6:00pm for registration.
Dinner will be served at 6:30pm.
The program will officially begin at 7:30pm.
On Sunday, the program will finish by 12:30pm with lunch afterwards.
** accomodations and meals for a fee

Beltane

Deepen Your Connection to the Sacred World

> Humanity, take a good look at yourself. Inside, you’ve got heaven and earth, and all of creation. You’re a world—everything is hidden in you.
> Hildegard of Bingen

As the sap rises and the daylight lengthens, the fields and forest reawaken into the new life of spring. Rooted in pre-Christian Celtic traditions, the holiday of Beltane celebrates this blossoming into the bright half of the year.

In this weekend retreat, we’ll explore ways to deepen our connection with the sacred through the green, living world, beginning with some of the vibrant traditions of Beltane. Facilitator Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil will use song and story rooted in the Celtic Christian wisdom tradition, along with contemplative and creative practices, to help us awaken and bring our attention to the rising green of the land and of our own spirit.

Contemplation and Practices

• Walking meditation
• Experiencing the elements through ritual
• Relating with the forest through sung prayer & chanting
• Participating in practices that bring our full, sacred attention to the land
• Using outdoor contemplations & prayer to engage with the natural world

> ... For me to be a saint means to be myself. Therefore the problem of sanctity and salvation is in fact the problem of finding out who I am and of discovering my true self. Trees and animals have no problem. God makes them what they are without consulting them, and they are perfectly satisfied. With us it is different. God leaves us free to be whatever we like. We can be ourselves or not, as we please. We are at liberty to be real, or to be unreal. We may be true or false, the choice is ours.”
> Thomas Merton

This program is ideal for those who are interested in contemplative and creative spiritual practice, and are curious about exploring parallels between Buddhist teaching and the Celtic Christian tradition. You’ll be invited to join in simple song and chant, but singing is optional!

Arrival and Departure

Friday, please arrive 3:00 - 6:00pm for registration.
Dinner will be served at 6:30pm.
The program will officially begin at 7:30pm.
On Sunday, the program will finish by 12:30pm with lunch afterwards.